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Championing equity

Charlie Wall-Andrews
Management PhD student and Trudeau Scholar

TMU’s newest Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Scholar (external link) , Charlie Wall-Andrews, is dedicated to advancing critical theory in policy studies to enable equity creation in highly inequitable settings.

One of Canada's most prestigious doctoral awards, the Trudeau scholarship provides a $60,000 annual package, including a $20,000 travel/networking allowance to facilitate fieldwork, research initiatives and conferences for exceptional PhD students working in the social sciences and humanities.

She has been recognized as a “Top 30 Under 30” from Corporate Knights and appointed a Legacy Fellow by The Edmond de Rothschild Foundations. In addition, Wall-Andrews is the inaugural vice-chair of Music Canada’s Advisory Council and has worked as an executive in the creative industries for over 10 years. Currently, she is a faculty member at the University of Toronto. At TMU, she studies under the supervision of Dr. Wendy Cukier, professor of entrepreneurship and strategy at the Ted Rogers School of Management and founder and director of the Diversity Institute.

What inspires your research?

A strong desire to make a difference in our society - policies shape our everyday life, and since we live in a world rife with inequalities, policies must be designed and activated in a way that is equitable to ensure governments and organizations can reach their full potential and impact authentically.

What does it mean to be named a Trudeau Scholar? How will this affect your research?

Being named a Trudeau Scholar is an incredible honour. This accolade allows me to be part of a community with leaders that are committed to making the world a better place through research and engaged leadership. This network, credibility and support will empower me to conduct meaningful research that will make a difference and promote more equity creation in our society.

How is your graduate education preparing you to be career-ready?

Prior to starting my PhD in Management at Toronto Metropolitan University, I had a productive career and enriched professional experiences. Toronto Metropolitan University creates an opportunity to conduct research that makes a positive difference. This ensures that my engaged leadership in our community is encouraged while completing my PhD studies.

How did music help you develop leadership skills?

Music has always been instrumental in developing my creativity, encouraging collaborations and promoting volunteerism in my community. Over time, I started working with music/arts organizations which also allowed me to develop and exercise my management skills.

What advice do you have for graduate students?

Do more than just study for school; remain active in your community: volunteer, work and/or find opportunities to exercise your leadership skills in your community.